Winter is one of the most exciting seasons for birdwatching in India. When temperatures drop in parts of Europe, Siberia and Central Asia thousands of migratory birds fly towards warmer wetlands, lakes, coastal areas and bird sanctuaries in India.
Flamingos in colourful plumage and elegant pelicans to ducks, geese and wading birds — India’s varied landscapes are important winter habitats for many migratory species. October is the start of migration season in many destinations but bird numbers increase generally from November to January.
Here are six places in India for nature lovers, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts to go birdwatching this winter.
1. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan
Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur is one of India’s most famous birdwatching destinations. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wintering area for migratory birds flying along the Central Asian Flyway.
The wetlands, grasslands and woodland of the park attract many different birds (bar-headed geese, northern pintails, ducks, pelicans, spoonbills etc. several waders).
Birdwatchers may also see birds of prey (eagles and harriers). The variety of habitats means the park is good for experienced bird photographers as well as beginners.
People can walk around the sanctuary, cycle or take cycle-rickshaw rides with local guides who help identify different bird species.
Best time to visit: November to February.
2. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is about 60 kilometres from Ahmedabad and one of Gujarat’s important winter birdwatching destinations.
The large wetland has shallow waters, marshes and small islands where resident and migratory birds feed and rest.
Greater flamingos, pelicans, ducks, geese, cranes, spoonbills and several species of wading birds may be seen in winter. Shallow waters make the sanctuary especially attractive to birds that feed on aquatic plants and small organisms.
Boat rides are a favourite way to see the lake and bird life in different sections of it. Early mornings are best as birds are around the water then.
Best time to visit: November to February.
3. Chilika Lake, Odisha
Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and one of India’s most important wintering grounds for migratory waterbirds.
Every year birds fly in from Central Asia, Russia and other colder areas making the lagoon a major birdwatching spot.
Some of the species that can be spotted are northern pintails, Eurasian wigeons, common teals, flamingos, gulls, sandpipers and other migratory waterbirds.
Mangalajodi (along the northern edge of Chilika) is particularly popular with birdwatchers. Local boat guides take visitors around the wetlands but safely away from the birds.
Nalabana Bird Sanctuary (within the lagoon) is another important habitat for migratory birds. Access to the sanctuary itself is controlled so visitors should check local guidelines before planning a visit.
Best time to visit: November to February (bird numbers are often at their best around December and January).
4. Sultanpur National Park, Haryana
Gurugram’s Sultanpur National Park is a good destination for birdwatchers travelling from Delhi and the National Capital Region.
The wetland habitat in the park attracts many migratory birds in winter. Northern pintails, Eurasian wigeons, common teals, bar-headed geese and greater flamingos may be seen depending on conditions at the time of year.
Walking trails and observation points are provided in the sanctuary so that visitors can walk around the wetland without disturbing the wildlife.
Early morning visits are best as birds tend to be more active in the cooler weather. The park is also good for beginners who want to learn bird identification and wildlife photography.
Best time to visit: November to February.
5. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
Near Kozhikode Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is an important coastal wetland where the Kadalundi River meets the Arabian Sea.
Its mangroves, mudflats, small islands and estuarine habitats provide suitable feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds.
In winter sandpipers, gulls, terns, plovers, whimbrels and other coastal birds can be found here. It’s especially interesting for those who like to see shorebirds and waterbirds in their natural habitat.
Its coastal location also makes it different from the large inland wetlands of northern India.
There are many places to enjoy nature around the area, photograph birds and explore the region’s rich wetland ecosystem.
Best time to visit: November to February.
6. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is near Srirangapatna in Karnataka and lies along the Kaveri River. It is one of the best known bird watching places in the state.
The sanctuary is small river islands surrounded by vegetation which provide nesting and resting areas for several bird species.
Painted storks, Asian openbill storks, spot-billed pelicans egrets herons cormorants spoonbills can be seen by visitors. Seasonal migrants visit the sanctuary too (some come during the cooler months).
Boat trips can be taken to see birds from the river as you explore islands. The sanctuary is also a favourite with wildlife photographers because of its bird colonies and riverine landscape.
Best time to visit: December to March although resident birds can be seen all year round.
Tips for Planning a Winter Birdwatching Trip
A little preparation can make birdwatching more fun and help protect the natural habitats of migratory birds.
- Carry binoculars: They let you see birds without getting too close to them.
- Go early in the morning: Birds are more active in cooler weather.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Lightweight neutral coloured clothing and comfortable shoes are useful for walking through wetlands and nature trails.
- Hire a local guide: Local guides can identify species and explain migration patterns.
- Don’t disturb wildlife: stay away, don’t make loud noises and never try to feed or chase birds.
- Check local conditions: Bird numbers depend on rainfall, water levels, weather and seasonal migration patterns so check timings and access restrictions before travelling to the sanctuary.
Experience India's Winter Bird Migration
India’s wetlands and bird sanctuaries are important seasonal habitats for birds travelling thousands of kilometres in search of food and winter conditions.
Flamingos at Nalsarovar, large waterbird gatherings at Chilika or river islands of Ranganathittu – each destination has its own experience.
Winter birdwatching is also an opportunity to learn about wetland conservation and the ecosystems that support migratory wildlife.
If you’re travelling for nature, photography and wildlife opportunities then these six destinations provide rewarding experiences during India’s winter migration season.
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